Typically, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the thought of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than transmitting sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This approach is especially helpful for people who have had damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more reliable alternative in such situations as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are not able to travel through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition known as one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults with recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary categories of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually provide more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having persistent ear problems
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Set up an assessment with a hearing specialist today.
Sources: https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/ear-nose-and-throat/bone-conduction-hearing-aid https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/baha–the-implantable- hearing-device https://www.ndcs.org.uk/advice-and-support/all-advice-and-support-topics/hearing-aids- implants-and-assistive-technology/ hearing-aids-and-implants/ bone-conduction-devices https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14794-bone-anchored-auditory-implant
